Lantana megapotamica (Purple Lantana)

Native from southern Brazil to northern Argentina, this woody lantana grows as a shrub or a scrambling plant supported by nearby vegetation. Its small flowers are pink to purple. The species occurs in a range of habitats, including hillside woodland, palm groves, shrubland, and grassland. Plants may be propagated from seed or stem cuttings, and flowering extends through the warmer growing season. In northeastern Buenos Aires, Argentina, it is used in habitat restoration and provides shelter for insects and spiders. It tolerates sun, drought, frost and wind. Photographed in Colombia.